The Crybaby Classic, given the name by race director Tom Behan Sr. and his staff at Bay Tennis and Fitness, is a 9.5-mile closed-loop course consisting of groomed, hard pack trails, including four miles of single-track terrain on Nub's Nordic trails and the surrounding North Country Trail system.

The race -- which includes a steep lung-busting 975-foot climb along the course's original trail -- features some of the most challenging trails Michigan has to offer competitive mountain bikers.

"It's a great event for anyone who likes to be outdoors in the fall," said Tanya Firestone, marketing director for Bay Tennis and Fitness.

The course, with an elevation gain of 1,127 feet and a maximum elevation of 1,281 feet, is rideable for all caliber of riders.

Racing begins at 9 a.m. Saturday in the expert divisions, followed by sport divisions at 9:20 a.m.; enthusiast divisions at 9:40 a.m. and elite open/pro divisions at 10:10 a.m.

Returning again are the kids races, which begin at 1:15 p.m. on a special one-mile closed-loop course which is completely viewable from the base of the hill.

Each participant in the kids race, which is for riders from age 5-16, will receive a collectable race plate and all riders receive a medal and plaque.

Spectators are welcome free of charge to the event, which runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. An awards ceremony is scheduled on the Nub's Nob deck of the main lodge following the races.

The event includes plenty of food, vendors and more. Parking is also free just feet from all the racing action.

"It's not just for mountain bikers, it's a community event," Firestone said.

Today, Friday, a premiere pasta dinner party is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. at Nub's Nob, where local band Born Suspect will perform. The dinner is open to racers, friends and family and spectators and take-out meals are available.

The meal costs $9 per person, or $6 for children 12 years or younger.

WHAT: Third annual Crybaby Classic Mountain Bike Race

WHEN: 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29

WHERE: Nub's Nob, Harbor Springs

COURSE: A 9.5-mile closed-loop along the ski area's Nordic trail system and single-track section which utilizes part of the North Country Trail

SIGNUP/INFO: Late registration available at www.crybabyclassic.com. (231) 487-1713.